Montreal is a Canadian gem that combines a lot of European history with the modern metropolis’s vibrant freshness; of course, its cuisine reflects it in every dish. Read on to learn about some of the best delicacies you can’t miss when visiting this city.
Montreal is the heart of Quebec and one of the country’s most populated and influential cities. Its cultural and historical mix reflects the people and customs that immigrated to make it their new home.
Quebec’s capital is steeped in French influence, and its cuisine is no exception. But French culture is not the only one that leaves its mark on its dishes: Montreal’s gastronomy is a perfect blend of French, British, Jewish, immigrant, and indigenous influences.
For all the above, it is not surprising that its gastronomy is so delicious and unique, with proposals ranging from bars, pubs, and a huge number of food trucks to world-famous restaurants. This city has options for all tastes and budgets. Take a Food Tour of Montreal and delight your stomach.
The typical dishes of Montreal
If you leave this city without tasting the poutine, bagels, smoked or maple syrup, let us tell you that you must not learn the essence. Do you still not need to know what we are talking about? Read on and find out what flavors you can’t miss on your Food Tour in Montreal.
Poutine
If Canada’s flag is known for its maple leaf, Montreal could easily have a Pourine on its flag. But what is this dish all about? It’s a heap of fried potatoes, cottage cheese, and thick beef broth. It’s a comforting and trendy dish.
Where to eat it? You can find it in almost any first-class restaurant with more gourmet adaptations. But there is no place like the classic straight from the stalls on the main streets.
Montreal-Style Bagels
Indeed, you’ve already tried bagels, and these may not seem innovative among the deck of flavor options to discover. But Montreal-style bagels are a bit smaller, denser, and sweeter than the classic ones and are very famous for their unique taste.
They are baked in a wood-fired oven. Previously, they were boiled in water with honey. Moreover, they are baked in full view of hungry customers. When the cold is pressing outside, there is nothing better than sitting near these ovens to regain your strength.
Two of the most famous places to eat them are Fairmount Bagle and St Viateur. You’ll find several branches along an afternoon stroll.
Smoked Meat Sandwich
No, it’s not a simple smoked meat sandwich. This local specialty is made with cured and smoked beef on rye bread with mustard. Over a dozen spices are used for seasoning: black pepper, coriander, kosher salt, Prague salt, sugar, bay leaf, cloves, smoked paprika, garlic, onion, dill, hot bell pepper, cumin, and mustard seeds. The result? A delicacy you won’t be able to stop tasting.
The obligatory stop to try this incredible sandwich is, without a doubt, Schwartz’s Montreal Hebrew Delicatessen, a restaurant that has been open since 1928.
Tourtière
Another tradition from this part of the country is this exquisite pork and beef pie, with lots of spices, potatoes, bacon, onion, and celery. It is usually a typical dish of the end-of-the-year festivities, but there are places where they have their adaptations 365 days a year.
My favorite place to try this delicacy is Aux Anciens Canadiens, a kitchen specializing in Quebec flavors. Get to know this classic corner that seems to be stuck in time, and taste this and other dishes that will make you lick your fingers.
Tarte au Sucre
To close any lunch or dinner, you should always order dessert. This tart is the best option.
It is made with shortcrust pastry filled with sweet cream, brown sugar, and butter. The simplicity of its ingredients and preparation is perhaps what makes everyone love it. It is a caloric bomb, ideal for facing the cold weather. However, it is irresistible, and you can find it in any corner of the city.
Pounding Chômeur
This dessert was created during the Great Depression, which is why it is known as the pudding of low-income people. Once again, its ingredients are straightforward, as they were available during this crisis.
It consists of a cake batter of butter, eggs, sugar, and flour, with a caramel topping made with brown sugar. It is then baked until a fluffy layer is achieved. Today, the modern version changes the brown sugar for maple syrup. This syrup is made from the sap of one of the country’s prevalent trees. It is a registered trademark.
One of the best places to try it is La Binerie.
Baignes
Canada’s version of doughnuts is prevalent in the city’s coffee shops and bakeries. The toppings and flavors are endless. They are an ideal option to recharge your batteries before a morning walk or in the middle of the afternoon.
La Beignerie is the best place to try them. We bet you will need to decide which one to choose.
Other experiences not to be missed
Montreal has its drink, which is created and produced in the province. It is the Cidre de Glace, a type of cider served chilled. The apples used are harvested exclusively in Quebec during the winter. This is a very refreshing option that you should take advantage of.
And if you are looking for something more substantial, you have to order the Sortilège, a whiskey liqueur flavored with maple. A flavor that captures the spirit of this part of the country.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when eating in Montreal
Before you sit down to eat anywhere, you should keep in mind some customs to avoid a lousy drink:
- Bills come with two mandatory taxes in the country. So, don’t be surprised to find a final increase of almost 15%.
- Tipping is a holy word in this country. It is customary to leave 15% of the total value of consumption—yes, the same as taxes.
- As a good place in the northern hemisphere, its restaurants will not be open until late at night. If you want to attend dinner, save time.
Now, you are ready to discover the unique flavors of this magical city.
